Campers seeking glamping options near Royalston, Massachusetts can find diverse accommodations within the densely forested terrain of north central Massachusetts. This region sits at elevations between 800-1,200 feet with a humid continental climate featuring distinct seasonal changes. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during the day, making it ideal for outdoor recreation from late May through early October.
What to do
Swimming at Laurel Lake: Located at Erving State Forest Campground, the lake offers a refreshing retreat during summer months. "There's a nice beach area for swimming and a boat launch at the far end of the road from the beach," notes Jean C., who visited in July 2020.
Mountain biking and geocaching: Wells State Park provides trail networks suitable for bikes and treasure hunters. "The hiking trails in and around the camp trail were nice," reports Rachel P., adding that it's "about a 1 1/2 hour drive from Boston" making it accessible for day trips or weekend outings.
Floating the Ashuelot River: Ashuelot River Campground offers river access for tubing and paddling. "Beautiful river to float down or paddle up. Saw a bald eagle this past weekend while paddling up past the campground," shares Michael M., highlighting the wildlife viewing opportunities.
Hiking Mount Olga: Molly Stark State Park Campground features a 1.7-mile round trip trail to a fire tower. "Climb Mt. Olga then relax by your campfire," suggests Tara S., adding that "There's a fire tower at the top, which provides awesome views of the Green Mountains."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Some campgrounds offer more secluded options than others. At Willard Brook State Forest Campground, "Site 3 is a great site. Large and separated enough from others," according to Susanne V., who found the experience "cozy, quiet, and comfortable."
Clean facilities: Upgraded bathrooms are a common positive mention. "THE BATHROOM was the best I've seen camping very clean and updated and honestly gorgeous," reports Beck P. about Molly Stark State Park, while John L. notes Wells State Park has a "Brand new bathroom/shower facility."
Waterfront sites: Proximity to water enhances the camping experience for many. Jean C. mentions that at Otter River State Forest, "The sites that are near the small pond are generally larger and have better space for pitching a tent," while site "65, 67, 68 are walk-in sites, with the tent area lower, closer to the water."
Luxury yurt accommodations: Otter River State Forest provides yurt options for those seeking upscale glamping. "At the top of the hill, there are several yurts available," notes Jean C., offering an alternative to traditional tent sites for comfort-focused campers.
What you should know
Variable cell service: Connectivity differs between locations and providers. At Otter River State Forest, "Verizon cell service was pretty good," according to Jamal C., though other carriers may have limited coverage in this rural area.
Crowds and noise levels: Some campgrounds experience higher traffic and noise. Taylor R. found Otter River State Forest "quite noisy until about 11pm and then starting again around 7am" due to the many families with children.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from late May through early October. Erving State Forest Campground was reported to have "only 27 sites, but in 2020 many of the ones served by composting toilets are closed," by Jean C., highlighting the importance of checking current conditions before visiting.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on needs. At Wells State Park, "site #39 online, based on proximity to bath house" may seem good, but Jen V. found it "very un-level, with a steep, narrow driveway," while pull-through site #15 was "much better...very spacious, close to the bath house, and had a really nice view of Walker Pond."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Friendly Beaver Campground offers multiple recreation options for children. "They have 3 outdoor pools(sports,toddler,regular) plus an indoor pool for rainy or chilly days. They have a few animals the kids can feed," shares Kate C., noting the family-friendly amenities.
Swimming beaches: Several parks feature swimming areas appropriate for various ages. Lori-Ann D. describes Otter River State Forest as "clean and well kept. Lots of families here. Swimming in a pond or a short drive to a bigger lake (camping pass covers both)."
Bike-friendly roads: Some campgrounds have safe cycling paths for children. Ryan C. mentions Wells State Park offers "biking, swimming, fishing" while Rachel P. notes at Otter River State Forest "Kids can play safely and bike throughout the grounds."
Quiet campgrounds for light sleepers: For families needing undisturbed rest, Beck P. found Molly Stark State Park ideal: "Quiet hours start at 10 but it was silent after about 9 which was so amazing."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Many state parks have minimal services. Cliff M. notes Wells State Park has "no hook-ups here, but the sites are large, well spaced, and shaded," requiring self-sufficiency.
Size restrictions: State forest campgrounds typically accommodate smaller rigs. Jean C. found at Willard Brook State Forest that "Most of the sites are best suited to tents and small trailers (think teardrops and pop-ups), but a couple of sites can accommodate slightly larger units."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste management needs. Jean C. mentions that at Otter River State Forest, the "Dump station and additional swimming/water activities are a little farther down the road at Lake Dennison."
Route planning caution: Some areas have covered bridges with restrictions. At Ashuelot River Campground, John L. advises to "Follow the website directions to get here as there are covered bridges in the area with low Clearance and low weight limits."
